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Hi there! I can't wait to discover what color will define 2026. Tell me everything!

Prepare yourself, as every year beginning in 1999, Pantone selects a Color of the Year. This selection seeks to represent the spirit of the times—influencing everything from our emotions and what we wear to how we design our living spaces. Last year's color was the darker neutral "a coffee-inspired shade," which came after the gentle and peachy "a delicate peach tone."

This year's selection, in contrast, is somewhat unexpected. It is "Cloud Dancer," which Pantone calls a "soft and structural white."

Laurie Pressman, VP of the Pantone Color Institute, remarked that it is "a pivotal neutral tone … permitting all colors to shine."

Interesting, Cloud Dancer… seriously, white? Could they be trolling us? Does white qualify as a real color?

What is the best way to describe the color of clouds? A blank page? Even though people often think of white as a color, all color is essentially a perception of light wavelengths. It's present in a box of crayons, so in everyday terms the answer is yes.

Whether Pantone is out of touch is more difficult to ascertain. According to their release, Cloud Dancer pairs effortlessly with other colors, avoids sensory overload, makes a minimalist statement, and exudes refined calm.

Responses from critics, in contrast, has been less complimentary. Some commentators have accused Pantone of being completely "tone-deaf." Style expert Mandy Lee called it "disappointing." Others have drawn parallels to subtle advocacy of problematic concepts seen in other media.

Right, one would hope they're cheerfully oblivious that now is a sensitive time to be pointedly celebrating the color white... So, how should I who doesn't follow a fashion show use this news in my world? I recently coated my kitchen ceiling white, does that count?

Yes, that certainly counts. The same goes for your earbuds, tiles, or ceramic plate.

The timing is curious you mention fashion shows, because many this season's presentations have been bold and fuzzy, featuring naturally dyed feathers on the catwalk.

All-white outfits were present, as per usual, in luxury shows—from elegant blouses to tailored gowns. Celebrities and public figures have also been seen in pristine white outfits at public appearances.

The good news is: you likely already possess pieces in this "subtle" chosen hue. In the words of Pressman, Cloud Dancer "represents a greener option for the eco-conscious," which essentially suggests skipping the requirement for anything new at all.

AT LAST, a design directive for the deeply unmotivated. An empty canvas, in a manner of speaking. A cocoon of serene simplicity amid the chaos. I'm convinced, I'm on board. Do you intend a whiteout for your closet?

Not a chance. Attempting to get out tomato sauce stains from a white shirt? I could do without additional cleaning headaches in 2026.

I do possess a pair of now off-white sandals, and this classic footwear remain perpetually fashionable.